Maybe a club-record four straight saves brought out the mischievous side of Armando Benitez, who was squirting clubhouse workers at Shea with a huge water gun yesterday. But Benitez says he’s not concerned with Barry Bonds’ chase of the home run record, and the Mets can beat the Giants “anytime we want.”

Benitez saved every game in the Mets’ four-game win streak going into last night’s game. He had worked five of the last six days after closing Wednesday’s 2-1 win, twisting his left ankle while trying to field an infield hit off Jeff Cirillo’s bat. But despite his sore ankle, his confidence wasn’t hurting.

When asked if he was excited to be able to play spoiler for Bonds’ chase of Mark McGwire’s record when the Giants arrive tonight, Benitez said “No. I know we can beat those guys anytime we want. The best team has to win. I don’t have to worry about Barry Bonds or [anybody].

“I’ll come in and try to get an out, and he’ll try to hit the ball. We don’t need [to think about being a spoiler]. If we play together, work hard, that’s what we did [Wednesday] and that’s what we have to do tonight. That’s the way we have to do it – just play baseball.”

It should be noted that Benitez blew a save vs. the Giants when he gave up J.T. Snow’s three-run home run in Game Two of last year’s NLDS. However, the 6-foot-4, 229-pound righthander has been brilliant of late. His 31 saves are fifth in the NL, compiled in workhorse fashion.

He’s pitched five times in six days, throwing an inning Aug. 17 at Los Angeles in a non-save situation. In his 33 save opportunities, he’s converted 31 with a sterling 1.89 ERA.

“As well as he’s thrown, if we gave him more opportunities he could have a large number. But 31 is pretty large, and I’m totally amazed at how he’s still perceived,” said Bobby Valentine, who thought Benitez’ fun-loving personality and comparisons with Mariano Rivera hurt public perception of him.

For his part, the 28-year-old flamethrower shrugged off his heavy workload and four straight saves. It’s feat he says he could’ve accomplished for the Orioles, if they’d let him.

“I tell Bobby look, if I’m tired, I feel a little sore, I’ll let you know. If I feel good and you need me, I’ll be ready to play,” Benitez said. “I never had a chance in Baltimore. Here they gave me a real chance and they believe what I can do.”